Which of the following is referred to as the guardian of the airways?

Epiglottis is the answer to this question. This is known to be the guardian of the airways because it will make sure that the flap that will lead the food to the airways is always closed. A lot of people have already experienced their food going down the airway whenever the epiglottis fails and this is always a problem.

The epiglottis is usually made of elastic cartilage that also comes with mucous membrane. There are instances when the epiglottis may be inflamed especially when it is exposed to certain types of bacteria like the Hib bacteria. Those who are suffering from epiglottitis would need to get tested and treated soon so that the condition will not worsen.